The Skills Institute (TSI) is a business-to-business training provider in Tasmania, which has evolved from the traditional TAFE model, with the clear purpose of workforce skills development.
In this project the TSI partnered with three Community Centres located in the NBN Stage 1 Rollout sites in the North, North West and the South of Tasmania:
Wyndarra Community & Resource Centre, Smithton
Dorset Community House, Scottsdale
Pittwater Community Centre, Midway Point
These partners provided access to the NBN network enabling connectivity to the TSI Mobile Training Centre (MTC) with standard computer network cable.
L-R Janet Fearns, Suzie Edwards, Helen Houston, Steve Omant
In addition several industry partnerships were formed to perform trials demonstrating the advantages of high bandwidth in vocational training:
Pittwater Community Centre, Midway Point
Tasmanian Golf Course Superintendent Association
Optia Incorporated
Dairy Tasmania
National Centre Dairy Education Australia (NCDEA)
Trialling innovative programs using high capacity connection
Facilitating VET programs
Preparing organisational readiness models for delivering training and assessment services
1) Trialling with virtual classroom software, web based high definition videos and web based programmes such as Google Earth using NBN connectivity
2) Delivery of training from the following VET qualifications: I. RTF30803 Cert III Horticulture (Turf) II. SIT30707 Cert III Hospitality; Skill Set SIT07 Barista III. CHC30408 Cert III Disability IV. AHC30110 Cert III Agriculture
3) Provision of a model of delivery that involves the use of a vehicle equipped with computers, remotely located and NBN connected via cable to an industry training partner.
This project has created a model that can revolutionise apprenticeship training in the workplace, where in some cases, training expertise is lacking and access to computers is often non-existent.
The model demonstrates how a vehicle of any description could be used for mobile training, connected to the NBN from a workplace to provide a flexible training facility. The project trials utilised the TSI Mobile Training Centre (MTC), however, something as simple as a mini bus with 6 networked laptops or tablets would be equally suitable.
This new delivery model involved synchronous training for apprentices in regional and remote areas incorporating resources that require high bandwidth via the NBN. Live classes with groups of apprentices in or close to the workplace were delivered from a remotely based, NBN connected TSI teacher, through virtual classroom and web conferencing software.
This project has showcased a new training strategy that can potentially improve the VET sector training outcomes through responsiveness and flexibility in addressing workforce development needs.
What does this really mean?
The “NBN Speed on Wheels” project team consisted of two Managers, a Facilitator and several Teachers. The Project Managers and Facilitator were highly experienced in educational technology with strong e-learning backgrounds. When selecting teaching staff for the project team they were initially guided by the enthusiasm of Teachers who offered to participate in the project.
Making a judgment call on selecting Teachers/Teams that possess the technical aptitude to participate effectively in a project like this can be challenging. Being adept in one specific area of technology does not necessarily mean a Teacher/Team won’t be challenged by the demands of a completely new technology which in this case, was a virtual classroom programme which they were not familiar with.
Teachers who had the skills required to deliver e-learning successfully and also the ability to adapt to new technology such as NBN connectivity quickly and effectively, were identified within our organisation at the start of the project. Despite this it became evident that some Teachers were unrealistic in their perception of what they could achieve in conjunction with the NBN technology.
Enthusiasm for a concept is great but it needs to be balanced with a realistic attitude towards what is achievable within the scope, timeline and available resources for a project.
Training
The assumption was made that everyone would require training in the use of WizIQ, the virtual classroom software used in the project. This personalised training was adapted to each individual according to their ability to use the software. This ranged from full intervention in the creation of the virtual lesson for some, to complete autonomy for others, where a login to the site was all that was required.
During the trials, shoulder to shoulder support was provided by the Project Managers and Facilitator for every Teacher delivering/facilitating a session, for both remotely located Teachers and those in the MTC. This presence involved providing a back up for any technical difficulties that may have occurred with equipment, software, venue issues and for general morale. Nothing was left to chance and in three out of the four trials, everything went like clockwork.
An outcome of trialling the NBN training concept in this project is that it has provided an effective means of identifying individuals possessing the necessary skills and knowledge required to champion the future implementation of this delivery model in our organisation.
What was done to get the project started?
Talk, talk, talk
The initial stage of the project involved many lengthy conversations around proof of concept as we explored creative ways of achieving our goals; what was actually possible, where it would occur, how it would occur and with whom. At the forefront of our minds was the vision that we were doing something that was at the cutting edge of training for future Australians in the VET sector.
Throughout these valuable early discussions the concept continued to evolve and change as we discovered limitations and explored alternatives during this period of research. We knew what we wanted to do, we had a simplistic view of how it would work but now the real proof of concept needed to be established….the leg work began.
Logistics
We had made the important decision to remain outside of education/government networks and to operate purely in Stage 1 NBN sites in Tasmania, partnering with Community Houses, to utilise their NBN connection. We needed to confirm two very important issues in those partnerships.
The MTC was technically equipped to connect with the Community House NBN connectionand internal network arrangements.
We were excited to discover that the MTC was NBN ready and all that was required was a very long (50 meters) category 6 cable to connect the MTC network switch to an existing NBN active port in the Community Houses. The cable was purchased, OH&S issues for laying out the cable were considered and the MTC was located at Clarence Campus for the first round of testing.
The MTC could be located physically close enough to the Community Houses.
On our initial visit to Wyndarra at Smithton, and after a quick measure it looked doubtful that the MTC would fit in the driveway. On closer inspection of the Scottsdale site…a similar story. Fortunately our very expert driver of the prime mover that transports the MTC visited both centres and informed us that it could be done. Looking at the amount of room at the side of the MTC when parked in the driveway at Smithton…it would have been no mean feat so we were very fortunate we had someone with such expertise.
As for Scottsdale, parking on the road was the only option; after council permission and a police inspection had been made we got the green light to go ahead.
Locking in trial dates; where to start?
Working with four industry delivery units presented its own challenges purely in organizing times that suited everyone. For example one trial involving a webinar delivered from GOTAFE Vic through the National Dairy Centre Education Australia (NDCEA).
We needed to lock in a date where:
the MTC driver was available to relocate the vehicle
the Community House was available for NBN connectivity in running the trial
the NDCEA coordinator was available to initiate the webinar
the GOTAFE OHS expert was available to deliver the webinar
the Skills Institute Teacher was available to facilitate the session in Smithton
the dairy apprentices were available, between milkings, to receive the training
the Project Managers and Facilitator were available to support the trial
A high resolution video camera capable of functioning as a web cam was investigated for use in the project to stream video between trial sites. Unfortunately such a product has not quite reached the market, although top end web cams look promising.
As we wished to also produce HD videos, priority was given to this feature when purchasing a video camera. It is anticipated that HD webcams/video cameras will appear on the market in due course, thus meeting both requirements for any future projects.
The virtual classroom software allowed the remote teacher to view a limited number of students during a trial session through the use of web cams, but it was considered highly desirable that the teacher should also view the entire class, the same as a face to face teacher views a classroom.
Existing technologies typically used webcams connected to laptop/PCs providing a low resolution, small screen view of a single user. The use of high definition video streamed on the internet was considered to be an excellent test of the NBN infrastructure and would have provided the desired high resolution view of the entire MTC class room for the remote teacher.
To enable the video capture of the MTC classroom, a search was undertaken for a suitable camera that would connect to standard laptops and stream to the internet. It would also be capable of recording high definition video as a regular camera.Many cameras identified for the task were either too expensive or required computer ports that were not available on the existing computers. For example, the FireWire standard used by high end cameras was now obsolete on the MTC laptops. Very few cameras offered current USB 2.0 connectivity which matched the laptops but they did offer USB 3.0 connectivity.However, no laptops with USB 3.0 connections were available.Various adaptors/add on ports were examined but discarded, partly on price but mainly because the laptops being used in this project were simply not up to the task of streaming video at this level.
The decision was made to purchase a HD video recording camera and abandon the idea of high resolution video streaming from a single camera.However, during the trials maximum use was made of the available web-cams and the capacity of the virtual classroom to simultaneously stream video from up to six laptop/webcams.
MTC classroom sessions were recorded using the video camera and placed on Vimeo, a high definition video hosting site. These videos were then viewed at a later time.
The Trials: Connecting the cable
Pre-trial testing was performed with MTC on location with our partner house at Midway Point. When we plugged that blue cable into the NBN connection in preparation for a trial, it was a huge relief when opening a browser on a PC to see the live web page flash up at lightning speed. This process was as simple as removing an existing plug from the community house based PC already NBN connected, and replacing with the cable running to the Mobile Training Centre. However, it was not always so straight forward.
A training vehicle at a Community House did tend to cause confusion for some
During the testing phase of the project at Midway Point the cat 6 cable was connected directly to the NBN Co Network Termination Device (NTC). It was assumed that the spare port was enabled but unfortunately this was not the case and all internet connection to the community house was lost for a short period of time. After a reset of the NBN Co NTC, it was decided to connect the cable to the internal Local Area Network (LAN) multiport router in the Midway Point Community House and it worked. It may be that later NBN equipment may have additional ports enabled to prevent this problem. It is worth remembering that this was the one of the first sites in Australia for NBN installations and later rollouts will benefit from problems identified in these initial stages by using different NTC’s.
A second problem occurred in one of the trial venues when the assumption was made that that a wall port connected to the NBN LAN in the Smithton Community House had been enabled and was active. This was discovered just prior to the trial and alternative cabling needed to be organised at the last minute. Fortunately our cable was long enough to reach an active port in another office in the building.
Adjusting ISP Plans
Internet plans in place for our partners with their service providers at the three community houses were reviewed prior to the trials and it was revealed that they were on a basic start up plan. These plans provided relatively poor speeds and would not be useful in demonstrating the capability of high speed NBN when used in education and training. Plans were upgraded to faster upload and download for the duration of the project.
Buy cheap…buy twice
Headsets with microphones were required for participants to interact with the WizIQ virtual classroom programme during the trials. Initially an online purchase of AVLabs AVL693 USB multimedia headsets at a cost of $20 per headset was made for this purpose. In the first trial these headsets did not perform well with poor audio quality and feedback from microphones which prevented us from activating more than one mic at a time. As a result they were replaced with quality GN Netcom 2000 USB headsets and the improvement was remarkable in audio quality and microphones performing well for the three remaining trials. This problem is unique to multiple users in a single room (MTC), used in isolation, the original headsets may have been satisfactory.
WizIQ Virtual Classroom
WizIQ was a programme that appeared to do everything you could ever want during the testing phase using the 30-day free trial period. Only after purchasing a licence and using the programme in greater depth were the limitations discovered.
The programme claimed that common file types such as PDF, Word/PowerPoint/Excel documents, Video and Audio files could be shared within the Desktop environment. We were successful in uploading a PowerPoint file however the hyperlinks embedded in that file were not active. To overcome this we needed to copy the hyperlinks into the text chat box.
Also YouTube videos were automatically launched through Windows Media Player. Access to other URL’s such as TeacherTube, Vimeo etc. in the WizIQ environment was not possible. As our videos were stored on Vimeo, access to these was not straight forward and once again we needed to copy the hyperlinks into the text chat box as a work around.
A problem also occurred during one trial when the class timed out and the small reminder window to extend the class time was missed by the facilitator. A new class was scheduled to be active immediately however, in our haste, the check box to allow attendees to enrol without prior registration was not checked and this would have caused further delay in the lesson. No problem! Delete that class and schedule a new one. This could not be done. WizIQ recognised that a class was in progress and even though it had no participants, it could not be deleted and a replacement class could not be rescheduled. The result was that the trial participants no longer had access to the WizIQ programme for the remainder of that trial. Fortunately this scenario occurred at the end of the session but this could be considered a shortcoming of the programme.
Speeds were amazing
During all the trials the speed tests revealed that lightening fast speeds could be achieved both downloading and uploading using the NBN connectivity. Feedback from some students did not reflect this as in our attempt to test the bandwidth to its limits we ran high definition videos, bandwidth hungry programmes and WizIQ simultaneously, until some audio lag and video breakup occurred. Unfortunately some participants were unable to appreciate the volume of data that was being transferred and this formed the basis for their feedback.
The potential of the role of the Mobile Training Centre in a new innovative delivery model with the concept of connecting its’ computers to the NBN wherever that location may be.
Teachers involved in the project are now facilitating an e-learning synchronous session. This was a new experience for Teachers in all four industry areas who have developed the skills required to use virtual classroom software. The project has provided a step towards teacher readiness for the impact of NBN in education and training.
For some Teachers using new programmes such as Google Earth opened the possibilities of free web based programme as effective and innovative teaching tools. In the field of Turf Management, students could view the topography of Golf Courses and Sports Stadiums in Tasmania, Australia and around the globe.
Activity:
In Barista Training the possibility of performing assessments remotely to workplaces using video streaming to assess the practical application is a concept that can be seriously considered in future training.
L-R Daniel Kaye , Pia Palmer
What the Project Managers know now
This project attracted wide media coverage and following the correct protocols for politicians both Federal and State was something we needed to be mindful of. Becoming familiar with the media culture and how it operates in terms of Media Releases and interviews was a new experience for our team.
Marketing was considered to be an important component of the project and the video produced by a local media company, telling our story, was presented to the Office of the Prime Minister. Photographs of the Mobile training Centre connected to the NBN at Partner Community Houses, were also used by Senator the Hon. Stephen Conroy in his Ministerial Address at the CeBIT Conference 2012. We were also privileged to have Rebecca White MP and the Hon. Brian Wightman MPattend the trials in the South and North of the State respectively.
The learners involved in this project have experienced a mode of training that has given them a glimpse of how technology will revolutionize training in the future. NBN has opened up possibilities for flexible training that they had not even considered. Their feedback reflected excitement and anticipation of the potential of a broadband enabled future for their training.
What the Skills Institute know now
Our organisation has benefited from an increased awareness of the virtual classroom, remote delivery and the potential use of the MTC. We are a step closer to NBN readiness from having the opportunity to trial Virtual Classroom and Web Conferencing programmes. We feel confident that our proven model can work and will open up possibilities for a variety of training opportunities using the MTC connected to the NBN.
We also now know NBN capability and what we should expect when negotiating with our IT departments for NBN access into State government / education department closed networks.
What the Community House Partners know now
Without our partners who kindly allowed us to utilise their NBN connection, the project would not have existed. In appreciation, each Community House Manager was presented with a framed Certificate of Acknowledgement, for the contribution they made. Feedback has been positive in terms of continuing future arrangements for training using the Mobile Training Centre in these locations.
Through our partnership, they have also experienced much faster NBN speeds and have a better understanding of what new and improved services they can now offer their communities.
Disability Support employees from Wyndarra Community Centre, Smithton, also benefited from a trial which involved a face to face session for them simultaneously with a virtual session with OPTIA employees in the MTC at the other end of the State. This provided the opportunity for these workers to view High Definition videos streamed over the NBN, providing the clarity and detail required in demonstrating daily skills required for safe working.
Mark Krause and employees of Wyndarra Smithton
This project has a demonstrated a model of vocational training that potentially increases the on -the-job component of delivery. Using the expertise of campus based RTO Teachers; live classes can be facilitated to apprentices remotely located in or close to their workplace, using technology supported by the NBN.
A mobile training vehicle of any description could be used where a single Cat 6 cable, can tap into the existing NBN connection in a workplace, providing a flexible training facility and ultimately improving training outcomes. This could be as simple as equipping a mini bus with 6 networked laptops or as sophisticated as a Mobile Training Centre.
The Benefits
The benefits of this project have been measured not just by learner feedback but also by the interest expressed by Teachers in the Skills Institute, to utilise the Mobile Training Centre. It is now viewed as a viable option for delivering training at a workplace and when the NBN rollout is completed in more areas of Tasmania this will be significant. This will improve training opportunities for remotely based apprentices, reduce travel time for Teachers and provide a mode of training based on engaging technology which will appeal to today’s learners.
The project has also promoted the use of the Mobile Training Centre with our industry partners. It has created awareness around the possibilities of maximising the use of this state of the art facility, with a future vision of how it can be utilised as a valuable training facility that had not previously been considered….taking the classroom to the workplace, where the teacher could be anywhere. In many ways, the MTC reached its full potential when connected to the NBN
Bonus Outcomes
Trial #3 Natural Resources - Dairy; this was a completely new learning experience for these apprentices who previously had had limited exposure to any kind of technology in their training. The NCDEA webinars are scheduled on a regular basis providing a valuable resource for our apprentices. Until the trial, we were unable to access the Adobe Connect site due to restrictions on the government network. As a result of this project demonstrating the value of the webinars, the Department of Education ITC Managers are now working on a solution so future webinars will be available to our apprentices within the network, accessible on campus.
As a spin off from our partnership with Midway Point, TSI were invited to be part of the National launch of the Digital Hub Network. The MTC was on-site providing demonstrations/workshops using the Google Earth Activity and HD Videos.
Organisational readiness
It is proposed that an NBN Readiness Focus Group will be formed within the organisation, including industry partners, to continue to implement training at more industry locations as the NBN availability becomes more widespread. It will address issues such as:
Selection of Teachers to be trained in Virtual Classroom programmes in readiness for delivery of online lessons
MTC calendar/booking procedure that will include an evaluation of the viability of requests
Decisions on web conferencing/virtual classroom software licenses to be purchased
Sound e-learning strategies that embrace new possibilities with NBN connectivity
Strategies for collaboration with other organisations
We need to take e-learning to the next stage:
Through this project and the sharing of information with other projects, we have discovered the potential of NBN connectivity in VET. We believe that the implications of this technology will lead to higher expectations for e-learning. To prepare for this our organisation will take the next step in course design, moving to an experiential rather than informational approach that dominates our current e-learning delivery.
With the advantages of the NBN connectivity, we can develop a sound e-learning strategy that will enable a shift from Bloom’s Taxonomy Levels of Remembering to those of Applying and Creating in our teaching methodologies. We will focus on changing design as well as delivery. Live questioning and feedback, recognised as an effective instructional style in face-to-face delivery, can become an integral component of the virtual classroom at the workplace. This synchronous form of e-learning will embrace collaboration, cooperation, communication, and community.
Plans for these changes will initially be addressed in a newly formed NBN Readiness Focus Group.
We need to work harder at engaging and retaining
Many of the TSI apprentice’s personal and professional lives are saturated by technology, yet their training is far removed from this experience. Engaging apprentices in learning through NBN enabled technologies will be the future of learning for these 21st Century students. We need to create a learning environment that promotes innovation and capability for self-directed lifelong learning. We will no longer have to endure the restrictions of poor bandwidth that in the past, has limited growth in this area.
7.2 Suggestions for improvement that come from your experience.
What would we do differently
When trialling our Mobile Training Model where a vehicle is equipped with computers, we believe in retrospect that we would have benefited from working more cooperatively with our ITC Department. It was initially thought that as we were not connecting to the government network, that it was not necessary to liaise closely with ITC. However this project did raise the question of what support ITC should offer in terms of computers that are not on campus, but on the road.
Protocols with ITC need to be in place to implement this model successfully, for example, extending Administrator Rights to designated Teachers to enable autonomous operation of the hardware where needed. Having procedures in place to update the Operating System of these “mobile computers” by ensuring they are connected to the government network at regular intervals.
In summary, staff need to be self sufficient when “on the road”
Suggestions
Suggestions have been embedded as audio information in the body of this Case Study. Where you see this symbol you can listen to a short story that reflects on things we experienced, that may be useful.
Worth sharing
NBN and e-learning
This project’s model displays a means of streaming media-rich learning experiences right into workplaces, or work driveways. It is sustainable and can be adapted and put into practice anywhere. The technicalities may change and evolve; the concept will remain the same.
The concept of using a vehicle equipped with computers to take a NBN enabled classroom to the students is currently limited by the availability of Stage 1 NBN sites. However, as the roll out progresses and connectivity to the NBN becomes widespread, the concept will have a much broader application. The growth of the NBN will enable a mobile training facility to reach more and more students, particularly those in remote and rural areas where currently there is little if any existing infrastructure for e-learning. Geographic separation need no longer disadvantage learners with the realization of this mobile virtual learning space.
The Mobile Training Model is not limited to regional and remote areas and could be just as easily utilised in the CBD of any major city or an industrial site of any size, in fact, anywhere there is a need for a mobile training facility. This project has delivered a proof of concept, demonstrating how students will benefit from the enhanced teaching and learning that can be achieved through NBN.
The NBN will provide a gamut of opportunities for improved e-learning strategies and in order to keep with the pace our teachers will be moving forward with their capability in the use of technologies available to enhance their teaching. As discussed in Section 6, an NBN Readiness Focus Group will be formed within the organisation to address future requirements.
Metrics of data
Training package area:
I. RTF30803
II. SIT30707
III. CHC30408
IV. AHC30110
Qualification or Unit(s) of Competence being delivered to pilot group/s:
I. Cert III Horticulture (Turf)
II. Cert III Hospitality; Skill Set SIT07 Barista
III. Cert III Disability
IV. Cert III Agriculture
No of learners:
Approx 45
No of learners who agree that broadband has improved their learning experience:
Approx 40
Difficult to gauge from formal feedback due to some Feedback Questions causing confusion in speed comparisons
Trainer’s comments on pilot
Most definitely will use in the future.
Positives: Time saving in travel. Use of engaging technology in delivery. High Quality HD resources and Web based programmes e.g. Google Earth. Everything became faster and clearer.
Negatives: Restrictions on Virtual Classroom programme.
Broadband Capacity:
Use the template below to record data from each session during the pilot project and then document average here
The Skills Institute (TSI) is a business-to-business training provider in Tasmania, which has evolved from the traditional TAFE model, with the clear purpose of workforce skills development.
In this project the TSI partnered with three Community Centres located in the NBN Stage 1 Rollout sites in the North, North West and the South of Tasmania:
These partners provided access to the NBN network enabling connectivity to the TSI Mobile Training Centre (MTC) with standard computer network cable.
In addition several industry partnerships were formed to perform trials demonstrating the advantages of high bandwidth in vocational training:
1) Trialling with virtual classroom software, web based high definition videos and web based programmes such as Google Earth using NBN connectivity
2) Delivery of training from the following VET qualifications:
I. RTF30803 Cert III Horticulture (Turf)
II. SIT30707 Cert III Hospitality; Skill Set SIT07 Barista
III. CHC30408 Cert III Disability
IV. AHC30110 Cert III Agriculture
3) Provision of a model of delivery that involves the use of a vehicle equipped with computers, remotely located and NBN connected via cable to an industry training partner.
This project has created a model that can revolutionise apprenticeship training in the workplace, where in some cases, training expertise is lacking and access to computers is often non-existent.
The model demonstrates how a vehicle of any description could be used for mobile training, connected to the NBN from a workplace to provide a flexible training facility. The project trials utilised the TSI Mobile Training Centre (MTC), however, something as simple as a mini bus with 6 networked laptops or tablets would be equally suitable.
This new delivery model involved synchronous training for apprentices in regional and remote areas incorporating resources that require high bandwidth via the NBN. Live classes with groups of apprentices in or close to the workplace were delivered from a remotely based, NBN connected TSI teacher, through virtual classroom and web conferencing software.
This project has showcased a new training strategy that can potentially improve the VET sector training outcomes through responsiveness and flexibility in addressing workforce development needs.
What does this really mean?
The “NBN Speed on Wheels” project team consisted of two Managers, a Facilitator and several Teachers. The Project Managers and Facilitator were highly experienced in educational technology with strong e-learning backgrounds. When selecting teaching staff for the project team they were initially guided by the enthusiasm of Teachers who offered to participate in the project.Making a judgment call on selecting Teachers/Teams that possess the technical aptitude to participate effectively in a project like this can be challenging. Being adept in one specific area of technology does not necessarily mean a Teacher/Team won’t be challenged by the demands of a completely new technology which in this case, was a virtual classroom programme which they were not familiar with.
Teachers who had the skills required to deliver e-learning successfully and also the ability to adapt to new technology such as NBN connectivity quickly and effectively, were identified within our organisation at the start of the project. Despite this it became evident that some Teachers were unrealistic in their perception of what they could achieve in conjunction with the NBN technology.
Enthusiasm for a concept is great but it needs to be balanced with a realistic attitude towards what is achievable within the scope, timeline and available resources for a project.
Training
The assumption was made that everyone would require training in the use of WizIQ, the virtual classroom software used in the project. This personalised training was adapted to each individual according to their ability to use the software. This ranged from full intervention in the creation of the virtual lesson for some, to complete autonomy for others, where a login to the site was all that was required.During the trials, shoulder to shoulder support was provided by the Project Managers and Facilitator for every Teacher delivering/facilitating a session, for both remotely located Teachers and those in the MTC. This presence involved providing a back up for any technical difficulties that may have occurred with equipment, software, venue issues and for general morale. Nothing was left to chance and in three out of the four trials, everything went like clockwork.
An outcome of trialling the NBN training concept in this project is that it has provided an effective means of identifying individuals possessing the necessary skills and knowledge required to champion the future implementation of this delivery model in our organisation.
What was done to get the project started?
Talk, talk, talk
The initial stage of the project involved many lengthy conversations around proof of concept as we explored creative ways of achieving our goals; what was actually possible, where it would occur, how it would occur and with whom. At the forefront of our minds was the vision that we were doing something that was at the cutting edge of training for future Australians in the VET sector.Worth sharing
Throughout these valuable early discussions the concept continued to evolve and change as we discovered limitations and explored alternatives during this period of research. We knew what we wanted to do, we had a simplistic view of how it would work but now the real proof of concept needed to be established….the leg work began.
Logistics
We had made the important decision to remain outside of education/government networks and to operate purely in Stage 1 NBN sites in Tasmania, partnering with Community Houses, to utilise their NBN connection. We needed to confirm two very important issues in those partnerships.We were excited to discover that the MTC was NBN ready and all that was required was a very long (50 meters) category 6 cable to connect the MTC network switch to an existing NBN active port in the Community Houses. The cable was purchased, OH&S issues for laying out the cable were considered and the MTC was located at Clarence Campus for the first round of testing.
On our initial visit to Wyndarra at Smithton, and after a quick measure it looked doubtful that the MTC would fit in the driveway. On closer inspection of the Scottsdale site…a similar story. Fortunately our very expert driver of the prime mover that transports the MTC visited both centres and informed us that it could be done. Looking at the amount of room at the side of the MTC when parked in the driveway at Smithton…it would have been no mean feat so we were very fortunate we had someone with such expertise.
As for Scottsdale, parking on the road was the only option; after council permission and a police inspection had been made we got the green light to go ahead.
Locking in trial dates; where to start?
Working with four industry delivery units presented its own challenges purely in organizing times that suited everyone. For example one trial involving a webinar delivered from GOTAFE Vic through the National Dairy Centre Education Australia (NDCEA).We needed to lock in a date where:
Hardware dilemmas
A high resolution video camera capable of functioning as a web cam was investigated for use in the project to stream video between trial sites. Unfortunately such a product has not quite reached the market, although top end web cams look promising.As we wished to also produce HD videos, priority was given to this feature when purchasing a video camera. It is anticipated that HD webcams/video cameras will appear on the market in due course, thus meeting both requirements for any future projects.
The virtual classroom software allowed the remote teacher to view a limited number of students during a trial session through the use of web cams, but it was considered highly desirable that the teacher should also view the entire class, the same as a face to face teacher views a classroom.
Existing technologies typically used webcams connected to laptop/PCs providing a low resolution, small screen view of a single user. The use of high definition video streamed on the internet was considered to be an excellent test of the NBN infrastructure and would have provided the desired high resolution view of the entire MTC class room for the remote teacher.
To enable the video capture of the MTC classroom, a search was undertaken for a suitable camera that would connect to standard laptops and stream to the internet. It would also be capable of recording high definition video as a regular camera.Many cameras identified for the task were either too expensive or required computer ports that were not available on the existing computers. For example, the FireWire standard used by high end cameras was now obsolete on the MTC laptops. Very few cameras offered current USB 2.0 connectivity which matched the laptops but they did offer USB 3.0 connectivity.However, no laptops with USB 3.0 connections were available.Various adaptors/add on ports were examined but discarded, partly on price but mainly because the laptops being used in this project were simply not up to the task of streaming video at this level.
The decision was made to purchase a HD video recording camera and abandon the idea of high resolution video streaming from a single camera.However, during the trials maximum use was made of the available web-cams and the capacity of the virtual classroom to simultaneously stream video from up to six laptop/webcams.
MTC classroom sessions were recorded using the video camera and placed on Vimeo, a high definition video hosting site. These videos were then viewed at a later time.
The Trials: Connecting the cable
Pre-trial testing was performed with MTC on location with our partner house at Midway Point. When we plugged that blue cable into the NBN connection in preparation for a trial, it was a huge relief when opening a browser on a PC to see the live web page flash up at lightning speed. This process was as simple as removing an existing plug from the community house based PC already NBN connected, and replacing with the cable running to the Mobile Training Centre. However, it was not always so straight forward.A training vehicle at a Community House did tend to cause confusion for some
During the testing phase of the project at Midway Point the cat 6 cable was connected directly to the NBN Co Network Termination Device (NTC). It was assumed that the spare port was enabled but unfortunately this was not the case and all internet connection to the community house was lost for a short period of time. After a reset of the NBN Co NTC, it was decided to connect the cable to the internal Local Area Network (LAN) multiport router in the Midway Point Community House and it worked. It may be that later NBN equipment may have additional ports enabled to prevent this problem. It is worth remembering that this was the one of the first sites in Australia for NBN installations and later rollouts will benefit from problems identified in these initial stages by using different NTC’s.
A second problem occurred in one of the trial venues when the assumption was made that that a wall port connected to the NBN LAN in the Smithton Community House had been enabled and was active. This was discovered just prior to the trial and alternative cabling needed to be organised at the last minute. Fortunately our cable was long enough to reach an active port in another office in the building.
Adjusting ISP Plans
Internet plans in place for our partners with their service providers at the three community houses were reviewed prior to the trials and it was revealed that they were on a basic start up plan. These plans provided relatively poor speeds and would not be useful in demonstrating the capability of high speed NBN when used in education and training. Plans were upgraded to faster upload and download for the duration of the project.Buy cheap…buy twice
Headsets with microphones were required for participants to interact with the WizIQ virtual classroom programme during the trials. Initially an online purchase of AVLabs AVL693 USB multimedia headsets at a cost of $20 per headset was made for this purpose. In the first trial these headsets did not perform well with poor audio quality and feedback from microphones which prevented us from activating more than one mic at a time. As a result they were replaced with quality GN Netcom 2000 USB headsets and the improvement was remarkable in audio quality and microphones performing well for the three remaining trials. This problem is unique to multiple users in a single room (MTC), used in isolation, the original headsets may have been satisfactory.WizIQ Virtual Classroom
WizIQ was a programme that appeared to do everything you could ever want during the testing phase using the 30-day free trial period. Only after purchasing a licence and using the programme in greater depth were the limitations discovered.
Speeds were amazing
During all the trials the speed tests revealed that lightening fast speeds could be achieved both downloading and uploading using the NBN connectivity. Feedback from some students did not reflect this as in our attempt to test the bandwidth to its limits we ran high definition videos, bandwidth hungry programmes and WizIQ simultaneously, until some audio lag and video breakup occurred. Unfortunately some participants were unable to appreciate the volume of data that was being transferred and this formed the basis for their feedback.Speed difference:
Backup channel of communication during trials
What the Teachers know now
The potential of the role of the Mobile Training Centre in a new innovative delivery model with the concept of connecting its’ computers to the NBN wherever that location may be.Teachers involved in the project are now facilitating an e-learning synchronous session. This was a new experience for Teachers in all four industry areas who have developed the skills required to use virtual classroom software. The project has provided a step towards teacher readiness for the impact of NBN in education and training.
For some Teachers using new programmes such as Google Earth opened the possibilities of free web based programme as effective and innovative teaching tools. In the field of Turf Management, students could view the topography of Golf Courses and Sports Stadiums in Tasmania, Australia and around the globe.
Activity:
In Barista Training the possibility of performing assessments remotely to workplaces using video streaming to assess the practical application is a concept that can be seriously considered in future training.
L-R Daniel Kaye , Pia Palmer
What the Project Managers know now
This project attracted wide media coverage and following the correct protocols for politicians both Federal and State was something we needed to be mindful of. Becoming familiar with the media culture and how it operates in terms of Media Releases and interviews was a new experience for our team.Marketing was considered to be an important component of the project and the video produced by a local media company, telling our story, was presented to the Office of the Prime Minister. Photographs of the Mobile training Centre connected to the NBN at Partner Community Houses, were also used by Senator the Hon. Stephen Conroy in his Ministerial Address at the CeBIT Conference 2012. We were also privileged to have Rebecca White MP and the Hon. Brian Wightman MPattend the trials in the South and North of the State respectively.
What the learners know now
The learners involved in this project have experienced a mode of training that has given them a glimpse of how technology will revolutionize training in the future. NBN has opened up possibilities for flexible training that they had not even considered. Their feedback reflected excitement and anticipation of the potential of a broadband enabled future for their training.What the Skills Institute know now
Our organisation has benefited from an increased awareness of the virtual classroom, remote delivery and the potential use of the MTC. We are a step closer to NBN readiness from having the opportunity to trial Virtual Classroom and Web Conferencing programmes. We feel confident that our proven model can work and will open up possibilities for a variety of training opportunities using the MTC connected to the NBN.We also now know NBN capability and what we should expect when negotiating with our IT departments for NBN access into State government / education department closed networks.
What the Community House Partners know now
Without our partners who kindly allowed us to utilise their NBN connection, the project would not have existed. In appreciation, each Community House Manager was presented with a framed Certificate of Acknowledgement, for the contribution they made. Feedback has been positive in terms of continuing future arrangements for training using the Mobile Training Centre in these locations.Through our partnership, they have also experienced much faster NBN speeds and have a better understanding of what new and improved services they can now offer their communities.
Disability Support employees from Wyndarra Community Centre, Smithton, also benefited from a trial which involved a face to face session for them simultaneously with a virtual session with OPTIA employees in the MTC at the other end of the State. This provided the opportunity for these workers to view High Definition videos streamed over the NBN, providing the clarity and detail required in demonstrating daily skills required for safe working.
Mark Krause and employees of Wyndarra Smithton
This project has a demonstrated a model of vocational training that potentially increases the on -the-job component of delivery. Using the expertise of campus based RTO Teachers; live classes can be facilitated to apprentices remotely located in or close to their workplace, using technology supported by the NBN.
A mobile training vehicle of any description could be used where a single Cat 6 cable, can tap into the existing NBN connection in a workplace, providing a flexible training facility and ultimately improving training outcomes. This could be as simple as equipping a mini bus with 6 networked laptops or as sophisticated as a Mobile Training Centre.
The Benefits
The benefits of this project have been measured not just by learner feedback but also by the interest expressed by Teachers in the Skills Institute, to utilise the Mobile Training Centre. It is now viewed as a viable option for delivering training at a workplace and when the NBN rollout is completed in more areas of Tasmania this will be significant. This will improve training opportunities for remotely based apprentices, reduce travel time for Teachers and provide a mode of training based on engaging technology which will appeal to today’s learners.The project has also promoted the use of the Mobile Training Centre with our industry partners. It has created awareness around the possibilities of maximising the use of this state of the art facility, with a future vision of how it can be utilised as a valuable training facility that had not previously been considered….taking the classroom to the workplace, where the teacher could be anywhere. In many ways, the MTC reached its full potential when connected to the NBN
Bonus Outcomes
Trial #3 Natural Resources - Dairy; this was a completely new learning experience for these apprentices who previously had had limited exposure to any kind of technology in their training. The NCDEA webinars are scheduled on a regular basis providing a valuable resource for our apprentices. Until the trial, we were unable to access the Adobe Connect site due to restrictions on the government network. As a result of this project demonstrating the value of the webinars, the Department of Education ITC Managers are now working on a solution so future webinars will be available to our apprentices within the network, accessible on campus.As a spin off from our partnership with Midway Point, TSI were invited to be part of the National launch of the Digital Hub Network. The MTC was on-site providing demonstrations/workshops using the Google Earth Activity and HD Videos.
Organisational readiness
It is proposed that an NBN Readiness Focus Group will be formed within the organisation, including industry partners, to continue to implement training at more industry locations as the NBN availability becomes more widespread. It will address issues such as:We need to take e-learning to the next stage:
Through this project and the sharing of information with other projects, we have discovered the potential of NBN connectivity in VET. We believe that the implications of this technology will lead to higher expectations for e-learning. To prepare for this our organisation will take the next step in course design, moving to an experiential rather than informational approach that dominates our current e-learning delivery.With the advantages of the NBN connectivity, we can develop a sound e-learning strategy that will enable a shift from Bloom’s Taxonomy Levels of Remembering to those of Applying and Creating in our teaching methodologies. We will focus on changing design as well as delivery. Live questioning and feedback, recognised as an effective instructional style in face-to-face delivery, can become an integral component of the virtual classroom at the workplace. This synchronous form of e-learning will embrace collaboration, cooperation, communication, and community.
Plans for these changes will initially be addressed in a newly formed NBN Readiness Focus Group.
We need to work harder at engaging and retaining
Many of the TSI apprentice’s personal and professional lives are saturated by technology, yet their training is far removed from this experience. Engaging apprentices in learning through NBN enabled technologies will be the future of learning for these 21st Century students. We need to create a learning environment that promotes innovation and capability for self-directed lifelong learning. We will no longer have to endure the restrictions of poor bandwidth that in the past, has limited growth in this area.7.2 Suggestions for improvement that come from your experience.
What would we do differently
When trialling our Mobile Training Model where a vehicle is equipped with computers, we believe in retrospect that we would have benefited from working more cooperatively with our ITC Department. It was initially thought that as we were not connecting to the government network, that it was not necessary to liaise closely with ITC. However this project did raise the question of what support ITC should offer in terms of computers that are not on campus, but on the road.Protocols with ITC need to be in place to implement this model successfully, for example, extending Administrator Rights to designated Teachers to enable autonomous operation of the hardware where needed. Having procedures in place to update the Operating System of these “mobile computers” by ensuring they are connected to the government network at regular intervals.
In summary, staff need to be self sufficient when “on the road”
Suggestions
Suggestions have been embedded as audio information in the body of this Case Study. Where you see this symbol you can listen to a short story that reflects on things we experienced, that may be useful.NBN and e-learning
This project’s model displays a means of streaming media-rich learning experiences right into workplaces, or work driveways. It is sustainable and can be adapted and put into practice anywhere. The technicalities may change and evolve; the concept will remain the same.The concept of using a vehicle equipped with computers to take a NBN enabled classroom to the students is currently limited by the availability of Stage 1 NBN sites. However, as the roll out progresses and connectivity to the NBN becomes widespread, the concept will have a much broader application. The growth of the NBN will enable a mobile training facility to reach more and more students, particularly those in remote and rural areas where currently there is little if any existing infrastructure for e-learning. Geographic separation need no longer disadvantage learners with the realization of this mobile virtual learning space.
The Mobile Training Model is not limited to regional and remote areas and could be just as easily utilised in the CBD of any major city or an industrial site of any size, in fact, anywhere there is a need for a mobile training facility. This project has delivered a proof of concept, demonstrating how students will benefit from the enhanced teaching and learning that can be achieved through NBN.
The NBN will provide a gamut of opportunities for improved e-learning strategies and in order to keep with the pace our teachers will be moving forward with their capability in the use of technologies available to enhance their teaching. As discussed in Section 6, an NBN Readiness Focus Group will be formed within the organisation to address future requirements.
Metrics of data
II. SIT30707
III. CHC30408
IV. AHC30110
II. Cert III Hospitality; Skill Set SIT07 Barista
III. Cert III Disability
IV. Cert III Agriculture
Difficult to gauge from formal feedback due to some Feedback Questions causing confusion in speed comparisons
Positives: Time saving in travel. Use of engaging technology in delivery. High Quality HD resources and Web based programmes e.g. Google Earth. Everything became faster and clearer.
Negatives: Restrictions on Virtual Classroom programme.
Use the template below to record data from each session during the pilot project and then document average here
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